UGKUnderground Kingz

Timing is everything, just ask UGK. The Texas duo of Pimp C and Bun B released the seminal Southern rap thesaurus, 1996s Ridin Dirty, and literally stayed true to their moniker until they transcended their status as regional pioneers when they appeared on Jay-Zs "Big Pimpin. But momentum for 2001s subsequent Dirty Money was scuttled by label limbo and flat-lined by Pimp Cs incarceration for aggravated assault. With Bun Bs unwavering support for his partner ultimately raising the profile of the group, the duo have finally reunited on this double CD effort boasting 26 tracks. Anchored by Pimp Cs seductive, slow-rolling funk and synth-dependent production, Underground Kingz has a largely consistent sonic palette, allowing the yin-yang chemistry of Bun Bs reasoned baritone and Pimp Cs wild-eyed, profane outbursts to coalesce. Eager to make up for lost opportunities, the duo have plenty of help on their "country rap tunes. Andre 3000 contributes a hall of fame verse for Outkasts appearance on the Three 6 Mafia-scored "International Players Anthem, while the duo reach beyond their Southern roots, tapping Too Short, Marley Marl and Big Daddy Kane, and Willie D of Geto Boys fame for guest slots that also double as tributes. The latter appears on "Quit Hatin the South, a track that brings things right up to date, lambasting the East coasts dismissal of Southern hip-hops dominance. While Talib Kweli and Dizzee Rascal providing credence and polar opposite ruminations on women, soon the guest list is overflowing with dubious contributors and results. I mean, who invited Rick Ross? While a leaner track selection would have benefited the duo, the records audacity begs the question: if now isnt the time for UGK to benefit from their underdog status, when is?
(Sony BMG)